Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has confirmed that Altay Bayindir will start in goal for the big derby with Manchester City. This comes despite United having signed Senne Lammens for £18.2 million. Lammens joined late and has shown promise, but Amorim says Bayindir’s experience won the day. Bayindir has kept the No.1 spot in the Premier League so far, playing three matches this season.
Why Amorim Chose Bayindir
Amorim said that in big matches for Manchester United, like this, having calm and reliable players matters. Bayindir has had ups and downs, but he has grown in confidence. Amorim added that Lammens is a talent for the future. He needs to settle in the Premier League—get used to a new country, training, and pressure. With so much at stake, Amorim wants his keeper to be steady.
🚨🧤 Altay Bayindir will start for Man United against Man City, Rúben Amorim confirms.
“I'm pleased with Lammens, he has a lot of potential. Now we are in the moment that the goalkeeper needs to be really strong and have a lot of experience”. pic.twitter.com/7uctyjIWio
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 12, 2025
Lammens’s Role Now
Lammens may not start, but he won’t stay on the bench quietly. He will train hard and learn. His time will come. United bought him with long-term goals. Being second choice now gives him chance to see the intensity, see what is needed. If he shows in training and smaller matches, he may force Amorim to make tough decisions later.
Derby Pressure & Defining Moments
The Manchester Derby is not just another game for United. Mistakes in goal are magnified. A keeper can win a match or lose it with one error. Bayindir knows this. Lammens will watch and learn. For Bayindir, this is an opportunity to prove he deserves the responsibility. For Lammens, pressure builds—but growth comes in moments like this.
Author’s Insight
This keeper battle reflects bigger choices at United: balancing long term potential with immediate results. Amorim has picked safety and experience now—but football is full of surprises. Lammens may yet become more than a backup. If Bayindir shines, his selection will look smart. If not, the pressure will shift fast. Either way, fans will remember how the derby began for both keepers.